Pressure Reducers
The pressure reducer works like this;
By adjusting the pressure reducer, it reduces the incoming pressure to a required outlet pressure and automatically balances the outlet pressure based on the energy of the medium.
What is a Pressure Reducing Valve?
Pressure reducing valves reduce the high incoming fluid pressure to a lower and safer pressure for your Process. They are normally installed in the main line, next to the shut-off valve. As the fluid flows through the valve it passes through a diaphragm connected to a spring, reducing the pressure to the desired level as the fluid passes through the valve to the other side. A Regulating valve can also be set to any desired downstream pressure within design limits. Once the valve is set, the set pressure will be maintained despite changes in supply pressure and changes in system load. The setting or set pressure is made by means of a Nut.
Pressure Reducing Valve Types
Self-operated Pressure Reducers are the simplest type, with relatively low cost and relatively accurate regulation. Price and accuracy will vary by manufacturer. Pilot operated regulators use a pilot valve to transmit the signal to the valve. Pilot operated pressure reducers provide greater accuracy and higher return rates.
Benefits of Steam Applications
The typical problems associated with controlling steam flows have generated many theories on how to improve the control loop; most are sophisticated and expensive. A simpler approach can yield better results in both temperature control and cost efficiency. It allows set steam equipment to operate and respond more quickly to changing conditions. The regulator allows more flow to pass through faster after sensing pressure loss, thus reducing fluctuations in outlet temperature. The benefits of this application can be measured in cost. Eliminating control valves, controllers and other elements in the control loop is a major cost saver. By eliminating control valves, controllers and metering devices, it can reduce system complexity, reduce costs and simplify commissioning and maintenance.
Advantages
- Cheap.
- Small.
- Easy to install
- Very robust, long life with minimal maintenance.
- Tolerant of imperfect vapor conditions.
- The self-operating principle means that no external energy is required.
Disadvantages:
- Only suitable for proportional control.
- The proportional band is 10% of the pressure.
- The wide proportional band means that the maximum flow is only achieved when the downstream pressure drops significantly. This means that the reduced pressure will vary depending on the flow rate.
- Available for Limited Cap
- Limited flow rate
- A change in the inlet pressure will result in a change in the outlet pressure.
Applications:
Can be used in all kinds of fluids, but generally used in fluids such as Water – Steam – Gas
